cuchulainn
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http://www.inq7.net/brk/2003/feb/05/brkpol_13-1.htm
Senators: Checkpoints open civilians to abuse
Posted: 8:36 PM (Manila Time) | Feb. 05, 2003
INQ7.net
SENATORS on Wednesday warned police checkpoints could open civilians to human rights abuse.
Quoted over radio dzBB, Sen. Vicente Sotto, chair of the Senate committee on public order and illegal drugs said checkpoints are "dangerous" for motorists who would be made vulnerable to human rights abuse.
Sotto filed a resolution seeking a review of guidelines for checkpoints, which would enforce President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's order to ban civilians from carrying guns.
Senator Joker Arroyo on the other hand said there are "other ways" for gun control and warned checkpoints could give the wrong impression that the country is "under a police state".
Sen. Ramon Magsaysay Jr. said since cars are an extension of civilian's houses, they could resist inspection at checkpoints as they would in their houses.
Meanwhile, Senate President Franklin Drilon defended the police checkpoints citing a Supreme Court ruling upholding its legality as a means of maintaining peace and order.
Allaying fears of abuse, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Superintendent Leopoldo Bataoil said civilians could report abusive policemen via the PNP's Text 2920 service.
Bataoil also said police could only peep through car's windows in "plain view" inspections. They would not be allowed to search car compartments or demand drivers and passengers to dismount from their vehicles unless there is an "alarm or hot pursuit operation".
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